New York, US, (EFE).- Prosecutors in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal trial reiterated Thursday that the rapper manipulated former partners into taking part in “sex marathons” involving male sex workers, highlighting disturbing details during closing arguments in the Southern District Court of New York.
“This is not about criminalizing dysfunctional relationships or unconventional sexual preferences,” said Assistant United States Attorney Christy Slavik. “Cassie and Jane never wanted to have sex with prostitutes while Diddy watched.”
The prosecution focused on the testimony of a woman identified only as Jane, who described a pattern of psychological manipulation and coercion.
Slavik emphasized that while Jane and another ex-partner, singer Cassie Ventura, at times consented to or even proposed those encounters, referred to by Combs as “freak offs” or “hotel nights”, their participation was not always voluntary.
Combs, wearing a white sweater and khaki pants, sat motionless for most of the hearing, occasionally exchanging notes with his attorney, Marc Agnifilo.
Three key incidents
Slavik instructed the jury to focus on three specific incidents that she said prove Combs engaged in sex trafficking.
The first, from 2023, occurred when Jane was flying to New York to meet Combs.
According to Slavik, “He told her he was setting up a ‘hotel night’ with male sex workers. He knew the only way to get her to participate was by deceiving her.”
Prosecutors said Combs used a “love bombing” tactic, showering Jane with affection early in the relationship to gain control.
The second incident, also in 2023, involved Jane engaging in sex with three male sex workers. Days earlier, she had texted Combs expressing discomfort: “I’m not an animal. I’m not a porn star,” she wrote.
The most severe accusation stems from Jun. 2024.
According to the prosecution, after physically assaulting Jane, including choking her, Combs forced her to have sex with a male sex worker while he watched and masturbated. Jane had explicitly told him she did not want to participate, Slavik told the jury.
Criminal enterprise allegations
In the earlier phase of the closing arguments, prosecutors described Combs as the leader of a criminal enterprise involved in sex trafficking, kidnapping, and bribery.
“This was organized, deliberate, and violent,” Slavik said, arguing that the rapper maintained a system of control over women through intimidation and manipulation.
The prosecution is expected to conclude its arguments on Thursday, with the defense scheduled to present its case on Friday. Combs has chosen not to testify.
The 54-year-old mogul faces charges of sex trafficking, conspiracy, and interstate transportation for prostitution.
If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. EFE
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